Humanity Hallows Issue 5 Out Now
Pick up your copy on campus or read online
By Rachel Cook
Images by Fiona Fincett
Passage was an exhibition formed by ten art students from Manchester Metropolitan University. They each displayed their visual interpretations of the word ‘Passage’ and its intriguing to see such a wide variety of responses to just the one word. It’s a clear reflection of the talent and creativity of the artists involved. Passage was held on the 28 March at Manchester’s Kosmonaut and it was clear that a lot of work had gone into the exhibition. A truly inspiring evening.
When speaking to the artists, it was evident that they had a huge amount of passion and enthusiasm about the event, therefore making the evening all the more enjoyable! They were extremely welcoming and open to talk about their ideas, methods and vision, which contributed to the friendly, yet intimate atmosphere of the exhibition. Emma Bradley, who oversaw the organisation of the bottom floor of the venue, interpreted ‘passage’ as a journey through time. For example “university is an important transitional stage from education into working life.” Emma used her passion for sculpture combined with digital art to create an intriguing 3D spectacle based on her concept.
I also spoke to Sam Draffin about his captivating, high contrast photography, which he took during a walk through the peak district. The idea developed from removing himself from his usual environment into the “quiet, calmness of forests and countryside”. Sam explained that his passion for photography comes from his exploration into the conscious decisions behind what he chooses to take photos of, and why, and he is hoping to expand the project further in the near future. I asked Sam what he learnt from organising an exhibition and his response was that “putting your artwork into a creative social environment is a fun experience which adds more excitement and confidence to the projects you’ve worked so hard on”. This was emphasised when speaking to Rowan Jones, one of the artists whose exhibition piece was called ‘Absorption’. Rowan stated, “Featuring in an exhibition encourages you to believe in your work. There will always be criticism and self-doubt but displaying it for others to see, along with having to give it context when explaining it to them is really rewarding.”
I was thrilled to hear that the team who curated this exhibition are currently arranging several more events in the upcoming months such as an exhibition at The Whiskey Jar in Manchester, with the date yet to be confirmed and and another called ‘Unland’ on the 28th April which I thoroughly recommend attending!
Passage was composed of pieces by – Emma Bradley, Sam Draffin, Ruth Bassett, Tanica Powell, Emma Whiston, Rowan Jones, Roma Lucia, Katie Tomlinson and Dominika Hrtusova.
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